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Immunisation Advice For First Time Travellers

If you are about to embark on your first holiday of a lifetime, you’ll probably be wrapped up in the excitement (and nerves!) that travelling brings – there’s so much to look forward to! But, despite the adventurous buzz, it is essential that you do not overlook the formalities of travelling abroad.

One of the most important things you need to do before you go away is ensure you’re safe and healthy for your travels – which means finding out if you need to get yourself immunised. To help you make sense amidst the excitement, we’ve put together some top tips for making sure you’re prepared for the journey ahead.

Do Your Research

The vaccinations that you might require differ depending on what country you’re visiting. Each location will leave you susceptible to a specific set of illnesses, so it’s very important to know what dangers are presented in each place so you can be properly immunised and avoid coming down with anything nasty. Some vaccinations are fairly standard – hepatitis, rabies, and tuberculosis, for example, are necessary in many locations. You’ll also find that some vaccinations are free on the NHS because they are considered high risk if they were to come back into the country, so you can get shots for diseases such as cholera and typhoid usually at no cost to yourself.

Think About Your Circumstances

Being prepared doesn’t just mean thinking about the country you’re going to – there are lots of variables to consider when undergoing immunisation. For example, some diseases are more common during different seasons. Also consider aspects such as your age and general health, whether you’re likely to encounter animals, and what sort of holiday you’re going for. If you’re likely to engage in aid work or enter a medical environment, you’ll probably need additional vaccines.

Time it Well

If you’re taking a lengthy trip abroad, chances are you’re going to encounter several different environments that require varying vaccinations. In short, this means lots of jabs! To avoid any unnecessary side effects – or just a very sore arm – try to spread them out.

Be Mindful of Advice

Just because someone says you don’t have to show proof of a certain vaccination, it certainly doesn’t mean you don’t need to get it. Establishments such as travel agents or embassies might tell you that you don’t need certification of a jab, but if you’ve been told you’re at risk of the disease it prevents – get it!

Secure Proof

Remember that you will be asked to show proof at the borders that you have had the appropriate vaccinations, so keep your certificates safe and available.

Be Aware of Side Effects

As with any medicine, there is always the chance that during immunisation you’ll experience some ill effects. Try to avoid getting your jabs last minute, because you won’t be able to travel if you aren’t well – and if you are worried about the effects you’re feeling, do not hesitate to seek medical advice.

Being prepared is the best way to ensure you eventually have the most fun possible on your travels, so read up, jab up, and go have a good time! Au revoir!

Even with the right immunasions in place, there is still a risk of illness when travelling abroad. Make sure you have adequate cover by contacting our travel insurance advisors.